One of the most rewarding classes I’ve taken so far is Women in World Politics. This course has broadened my understanding of global politics by focusing on the role of women in political systems and the unique challenges they face worldwide.
From the start, I was drawn to how the class tackled big questions: Where are the women? And what work is gender doing? These are just some of the thought-provoking issues we explored, and they helped me understand politics from a much more nuanced perspective.
What I love most about this class is how it bridges theory and reality. We didn’t just study abstract ideas; we looked at real-world examples of women who’ve redefined representation and leadership. We also discussed policies that impact women, such as reproductive rights, maternity leave, and gender quotas. Analyzing how these policies vary across regions and cultures deepened my appreciation for the global fight for gender equality and the complexity of the struggle.
Intersectionality was a major theme throughout the course– we learned how different factors further complicate the political landscape for women– which has pushed me to think more critically about how I approach the study of politics.
This class has had a lasting impact on me: it’s taught me to think more deeply about the importance of representation and how institutions shape not only who gets to participate in politics but also whose voices are heard. Whether you’re interested in domestic policy or international relations, this class provides an essential framework for understanding the complexities of life– both personal and political– from a gendered perspective.
I genuinely can’t recommend this class enough. It’s more than just a class about women—it’s about the future of global leadership and how we can all play a role in making politics a more equitable place.
–Iman Khan
Major: International Affairs, Political Science, & Spanish
Minor: Law, Jurisprudence and the State, International Human Rights and Security, & Communication Studies
Certificate: Global Studies, Personal and Organizational Leadership, & Interdisciplinary Writing
